Three more schools in Gedling borough will soon be offering free breakfast clubs as the landmark scheme continues to expand across the the country.
The government confirmed yesterday (2) that over 300,000 more children in the UK will benefit from Best Start free breakfast clubs this Spring with more schools signing up to the scheme.
The latest borough schools to sign up to the Government initiative are:
Carlton Junior Academy Carlton Infant Academy Arnold Mill Primary and Nursery School
New figures show schools already enrolled on the programme have saved families up to £450 per year, while giving them up to 95 hours of precious time back each morning. Meanwhile, children are benefitting from healthy breakfasts and being in school earlier, with evidence showing improved attendance, attainment and behaviour.
The Government is now calling on more primary schools to sign up, as new polling reveals nearly half (45%) of parents prioritise schools offering them.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Free breakfast clubs are revolutionising morning routines up and down the country, becoming an essential part of modern-day life for working families.
“From settling a child into the school day to helping parents get to work, free breakfast clubs are giving every child the best start in life – delivering on our plan for national renewal.
“I was raised by a single parent, so I know first-hand the struggles facing parents trying to make ends meet and how important it is to tackle outdated stigmas with practical support that people can feel every day.”
Police are calling on residents in parts of Gedling borough to get involved in a new voluntary crime prevention initiative that gets local people to take an active role in keeping their communities safe.
Street Watch is a community scheme run in partnership with Nottinghamshire Police to enhance local safety and tackle low-level issues affecting neighbourhoods.
Volunteers walk in pairs wearing high-visibility vests and are encouraged to report incidents of suspicious activity, including criminal damage, antisocial behaviour, graffiti, and fly-tipping.
All Street Watch volunteers take part in a training and induction session and are regularly supported by the force’s neighbourhood teams.
They are required to volunteer two hours per month as part of their Street Watch role, which are flexible around availability.
The scheme is open to anyone aged 18 and over who is interested in improving Gedling borough.
Members will be accompanied on their first walk by a neighbourhood officer, and each group is supported by a dedicated PCSO who liaises with volunteers.
Residents in Arnold and Mapperley can now sign up for the scheme.
PCSO Megan Tuffley, of Nottinghamshire Police’s Street Watch team, said: “Street Watch enables members of the public to play an active role in supporting the safety and wellbeing of their local area.
“Volunteers often become aware of neighbourhood issues before they are formally reported, and this initiative helps strengthen communication between residents and the police, contributing to a clearer understanding of local concerns.”
“The Street Watch scheme operates independently from established Neighbourhood Watch groups and focuses on enhancing security, vigilance, and awareness of crime prevention.
“If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the time to join us and help make a difference!”
Residents interested in volunteering for Street Watch or finding out more information should email: streetwatch@notts.police.uk
Police have been carrying out bike patrols in the Colwick area as part of a crackdown on the anti-social use of off-road vehicles in the area.
Patrols were carried out by police on January 16 and covered areas such as Colwick, Daleside Road, Colwick Country Park and surrounding residential areas.
Officers say patrols will continue and are encouraging the public to approach them if they have any information.
A spokesman said: “Nottinghamshire Police are committed to tackling the issue of illegal and anti-social use of vehicles, including the illegal use of electric motorcycles.
“If you see any of our off-road bike officers whilst out and about feel free to stop and have a chat, whether it be concerns you have, information you wish to pass on or advice on legal locations and requirements to riding off road.
To report issues to the team please contact 101 or 999 to report accordingly.
These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated by Gedling Borough Council this week.
This is a round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers have validated.
These applications will now be decided by Gedling borough planners.
More details can be found on the Gedling Borough Council planning site HERE by using the reference codes published below.
Removal of the standing tree trunks, leaving a stump of around 1-1.5 mtrs Moor Pond Wood, Moor Road, Papplewick Ref. No: 2026/0048TPO5
Installation of new signage Carlton Local Premier 337 – 339 Carlton Hill, Carlton Ref. No: 2026/0032
Demolition of existing conservatory to allow for a single storey rear extension. Loft conversion, including hip to gable and rear dormer. 51 Prospect Road, Carlton Ref. No: 2026/0027
Demolish existing single storey rear extension and construct a new single storey rear extension. To build a 1.5m high retaining wall in the garden to create patio space. 22 Fairview Road, Woodthorpe Ref. No: 2026/0031
Single Storey Rear Extension 2A Central Avenue South, Arnold Ref. No: 2026/0021
Loft conversion to change use from C3 HMO to “sui generis” HMO 44 Southcliffe Road, Carlton Ref. No: 2026/0024
Construction of two-storey side extension and first floor extension install two first-floor obscure-glazed non-opening windows (Revised scheme of 2025/0266) 27 Marshall Road, Mapperley Ref. No: 2026/0020
Change of brick orientation from Soldier to Stretcher course to blue brick detailing. Nottinghamshire County Council, Rolleston Drive, Arnold Ref. No: 2026/0018NMA
Approval of details reserved by conditions 3 (fencing) and 4-6 (BNG) of planning permission 2025/0489 34, Lambley Lane, Gedling Ref. No: 2026/0012DOC
Conversion of existing first floor C3 unit and part of ground floor retail unit to C4 House in Multiple Occupation with single storey rear extension. DK Market, 33 Mansfield Road, Daybrook Ref. No: 2025/0914
Proposed Tripple garage adjacent to existing garage 3 The Paddocks, Lambley Lane, Burton Joyce Ref. No: 2025/0924
Discharge of conditions 8 (materials), 9 (levels), 11 (CEMP) and 15 (boundary) attached to planniung permission reference 2025/0371. 1 Nursery Drive, Carlton Ref. No: 2025/0814DOC
Discharge of conditions 9 (materials), 10 (levels), 12 (CEMP) and 16 (boundary) attached to planning permission reference 2025/0372. 1 Nursery Drive, Carlton Ref. No: 2025/0815DOC
Retention of boundary wall around the property 156 Main Street, Woodborough Ref. No: 2024/0226
Retention of boundary wall around the property 156 Main Street, Woodborough Ref. No: 2024/0225
Ballantrae Close, off Howbeck Road, was one of a number of streets in the area having its sign replaced due to it being old and worn, with a revised, modern one in its place.
But while intentions were good, it was not the replacement itself that grabbed people’s attention.
Instead, it is the fact that the letters at the end of the street name have been swapped around.
Instead of reading Ballantrae, it says ‘Ballantrea Close’ – at odds with the sign directly opposite on the other side of the road.
PICTURED: Gedling Borough Council blamed ‘an insight’ for the spelling error
A passer-by spotted the blunder and posted it on Facebook, to which it garnered a large response from those in a local group.
Residents of the street itself found it more funny than frustrating.
“Somebody needs to go to Specsavers, whoever’s done that,” said NHS worker Elaine Higgins. “It’s not like delivery drivers find houses easily. So they can’t use that as an excuse.
“It looks all nice and clean and shiny but it’s spelt wrong.”
“It’s just unusual,” said engineer Harry Blach. “Google Maps is free. And you’ve got another sign with exactly the same spelling next to it to look at.
“Where’s my £150 (council tax) going? Because I’ll tell you, it’s not going on proofreaders. I just wonder how many channels, how many meetings with tea and biscuits it went through before they clocked it.”
Supposedly, Ballantrae Close is not the only street sign that has been spelt wrong in Arnold in recent years.
Glen Parva Avenue, which is accessed from Monsell Drive, is currently spelt ‘Glen Pava Avenue’ on its sign.
It was spotted and reported to the council in November, but still has not been replaced.
Ballantrae is a village at the bottom of the River Stinchar in South Ayrshire, Scotland.
A Gedling Borough Council spokesperson said: “We were made aware of the issue over the weekend, and the council has already contacted the manufacturer to arrange a replacement.
“While we ask contractors to carry out full checks before installation, on this occasion an oversight meant the verification step was missed.
“The replacement is currently being manufactured and will be installed as a priority within the next four weeks. The cost of the replacement sign is £75.”
Police are investigating after a taxi driver reported being threatened at knifepoint by a man who fled without paying his fare in Carlton.
Neighbourhood officers were on patrol in Gedling Road at 2.35pm on Wednesday (January 28) when they were flagged down by the victim.
He reported an altercation had taken place inside his taxi and he had been threatened with a knife.
It is believed the offender exited the taxi at the junction of Main Road and Hardy’s Drive and then ran towards Duncroft Avenue.
Inspector Steven King is hoping people can help with police enquiries
The victim was not injured but was left shaken by the incident.
Officers have conducted a trawl of CCTV and doorbell footage, and are also asking for the public’s help.
Inspector Steven King, local area commander for Gedling, said: “We know this incident took place in a busy location with a large number of potential witnesses.
“I’d urge people who were in the area at the time to think if they noticed anything which could assist with our inquiries.
“Likewise, if you have any relevant dashcam, CCTV, mobile phone or doorbell footage please get in touch with officers.
“Although incidents of this nature are concerning we do not believe there was any wider risk.”
A Carlton-based developer has unveiled a £4M plan to create what it claims will be the best padel court and social facility in the UK – complete with world class courts, co-working spaces and dining led by one of the city’s top hospitality talents.
Carlton-based ALB Group, which has been credited with breathing new life into Nottingham’s Bridlesmith Gate, has submitted a planning application for the 30,000 sqft venue to be called Swing, on Electric Avenue, next to its Riverleen House residential project.
If approved, work is expected to begin immediately, with the centre opening within just seven months of construction starting.
The project will feature eight indoor and three outdoor covered padel courts, a show court with arena-style seating, plus wellness and leisure facilities including a sauna, physiotherapy, sports massage rooms and a reformer pilates studio.
It will also boast coworking spaces, an outdoor events area, a purpose built pickle court, and a range of unique eateries and bars, all concepts being brought to life by the creative force behind Public and Peter’s Pizza.
If approved, work is expected to begin immediately, with the centre opening within just seven months of construction starting.
A spokesperson for Public, said: “This centre will be more than just first-class courts. We’re building a community founded on connection, conversation and energy. Yes, we want people to come and play, but also to stay to share a drink, work, network and make new connections.”
Arran Bailey, managing director at ALB Group, said: “We want to create the biggest and best padel court centre in the UK. I’ve been playing for two years now, and it’s changed my life. After visiting courts in New York, Miami and Dubai, I wanted to bring the best bits of all of them back home to Nottingham.
“We’ve got some crazy plans for this site and amazing food offerings, but at the heart of it all is community.”
The purpose built centre, designed by Nottingham based Leonard Design Architects, aims to rival top facilities around the world. Director John Morgan said the team had drawn on international case studies to develop what they hope will be “the best padel centre in Europe.”
He added: “In Spain, padel is second only to football and is seen as a multi-generational social activity. That’s the model we’ve followed to create a space for playing, socialising, working and dining all in one.”
The new venue will also make use of reformer pilates classes, pickleball. full time coaching staff on site and unrivalled facilities, making it the UK’s best padel centre.
Martin Sweeney, Padel Entrepreneur and President of United States Padel Association 2023 & 2024, said: “I have been fortunate in being part of the incredible Padel growth in many parts of the world including the opening of the first padel courts in the middle east at the prestigious Emirates Golf Club and opening of the first Padel Club in the USA. Nottingham is my adopted home City so I am excited to see the introduction of this fantastic facility.
The investment and vision to construct such a venue will put Nottingham on the UK Padel map and I look forward to making new Padel friends and enjoying the camaraderie that this wonderful sport brings.
Arran added: “Our aim is to get both the younger and older generations into padel. We will be looking to make connections with local schools, hosting a wide range of tournaments.”
Padel is a hybrid of tennis and squash, and is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK. According to the Lawn Tennis Association, more than 400,000 people played the game in 2024, compared to just 15,000 in 2019.
Arran added: “This project is absolutely huge in terms of both scale and ambition. To create something like this in my hometown is simply amazing. This is a building that’s been designed purely for Padel, so there are no compromises with it. We aren’t trying to make padel courts fit into a building, we are building a padel club from the ground up.
“This is a pure passion project that I am going to throw everything into, and I truly believe this is what the East Midlands padel community needs “
Residents at a care home in Stoke Bardolph are enjoying regular visits from a local baby and toddler group, creating heart-warming moments for people of all ages.
Every two weeks, Rivendell View Care Home welcomes Bits and Bobs Playgroup, a baby group that supports new mums to meet others in the community while giving residents the opportunity to interact with babies and toddlers.
The sessions typically last between one hour and an hour and a half and have been growing in popularity, with more families attending each week.
The intergenerational sessions have proved hugely beneficial for residents, who take great delight in playing with the children, watching them explore and hearing their laughter fill the home.
Residents Doris Robertson and Rita B at HC-One’s Rivendell View Care Home enjoying Bits and Bobs Playgroup
Resident Dennis Dutton said: “It is wonderful seeing all the children playing and looking so happy. Seeing them smiling and hearing them laugh is lovely.”
Fellow resident Doris Robertson added: “It’s so nice to see all the children – it really brings joy to my day.”
Home Manager Cara Stockill praised the initiative and its positive impact on residents and the wider community.
She said: “It is great to have the community come together like this. Seeing the joy it brings to our residents’ faces is really special.”
Photograph 1: Resident Dennis Dutton at HC-One’s Rivendell View Care Home enjoying Bits and Bobs Playgroup
Photograph 2: Residents Doris Robertson and Rita B at HC-One’s Rivendell View Care Home enjoying Bits and Bobs Playgroup
Photograph 3: Resident Dennis Dutton at HC-One’s Rivendell View Care Home enjoying Bits and Bobs Playgroup
Photograph 4: HC-One’s Rivendell View Care Home setting up for the Bits and Bobs Playgroup session
Police have issued a photo of a man they wish to speak to after criminal damage was caused in Woodborough.
Officers are seeking the public’s help after receiving reports about the incident at the village hall.
It is believed CCTV cameras at the address were smashed with concrete.
The incident occurred on December 10 between 7 and 7.30pm at the Village Hall on Lingwood Lane.
A police spokesman said: “We have exhausted other lines of inquiry and are now releasing an image of a man we would like to speak with in connection with the incident.
“Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting occurrence 26000016148 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Residents in Calverton have branded plans that could put their popular village leisure centre at risk of closure “bang out of order”.
Gedling Borough Council is reviewing its entire leisure offer as part of a new strategy to make its portfolio more financially sustainable.
It currently provides an annual £1.3 million subsidy to help run all of its leisure centres which the Labour-led authority says is “not sustainable”.
As part of the review, it is looking at how it manages joint-use sites, including Calverton Leisure Centre.
Council documents reveal it is considering withdrawing from the joint agreement to run the facility off Flatts Lane, but residents and some councillors fear this could result in its closure.
Residents in Calverton told the Local Democracy Reporting Service the plans were “bang out of order”.
PICTURED: Inside Calverton Leisure Centre
Ken Leverton, who ran an MOT garage, said he has used the leisure centre for the gym and yoga classes. Both, he says, were very busy, with classes regularly booked up.
“It is bang out of order,” he said, emphasising the news of possible cuts to public services had made him angry.
“It is another facility that people are paying council tax for, so what are people paying their council tax for? The roads are terrible, and now they could withdraw from running this?
“I could understand it if it was not being used, but you have to book the classes weeks in advance. The gym was always busy when I used it.”
Eleanor Hardy has recently moved into the new Forest View housing estate in Calverton.
She said it would be nice for her daughter, nine, to use the centre when she is older.
“It would be a shame to lose a leisure centre as Calverton is a growing little village with the new estates,” she said.
“I know my nephew and brother use the gym. The next closest would be Arnold so you’d have to drive or get the bus.”
Rachael Gill, who has lived in the village for more than 20 years, said: “My son who is 15 uses it. I would have to drive him or he’d have to get the bus to Redhill, so he would only be able to go when I am free.”
Debra Groves, who has lived in Calverton for 27 years says her grandkids use the facility. She added: “It would be a shame, really.
“There is not a lot in the village, and it is getting bigger.”
Calverton Leisure Centre is currently operated and managed by the council, but there are joint-use agreements in place with Redhill Academy Trust, which runs the school site, and Nottinghamshire County Council, which owns the site.
The new strategy recommends the centre is retained for community use “in the short term”.
However, over the long term, the strategy could give the council “the opportunity to transfer management back to the school and Nottinghamshire County Council, or work with another provider to manage to reduce the council’s liability.”
Council documents also cite a condition survey from 2017 that claims £44,000 in repairs are needed at the facility.
However, these claims have been disputed and branded “out of date”, particularly with the pool having undergone a £50,000 refurbishment in 2020.
“They have got all new lighting, new flooring, the plant for the pool is in tip-top condition,” Cllr Andy Meads (Ind) previously said.
“They have got no expectation of any costs coming up. [They say] demand for classes and sessions are in decline, that was another old one and is not true at all. There are waiting lists. If Calverton shut, these people couldn’t be accommodated at the other leisure centres.”
Under the strategy the council is hoping to replace the ageing Richard Herrod Centre and Carlton Forum Leisure Centre with a new purpose-built facility called Carlton Active.
It would be built where Richard Herrod currently stands.
Cllr Meads said the council should focus on investing in existing facilities across the borough, not just those serving people in Carlton and Arnold.
Cllr Henry Wheeler (Lab), portfolio holder for lifestyles, health and wellbeing, said: “I want to make it absolutely clear at the outset no decision has been made about withdrawing the joint-use agreement at Calverton, Redhill or Carlton Forum.
“The council’s leisure portfolio is not financially sustainable in its current form.
“Joint-use sites are also allocated on school sites not owned by the borough council, which significantly limits our ability to invest, to modernise or plan for the long term.
“In September cabinet agreed in light of these pressures consultation should be undertaken on whether the council should continue to directly operate leisure services from joint use sites, and if not what alternative models could reduce financial risk.”
The strategy is expected to be considered again in March.
